Lusanda Dumke steps away from rugby: A significant loss for Bok Women

The Springbok Women were dealt a blow ahead of their Rugby World Cup campaign with experienced flanker Lusanda Dumke taking a breather from the game due to medical reasons.

SA Rugby, without divulging more about her condition, announced on Thursday morning that Dumke, captain of the Bulls Daisies, is stepping away from rugby due to health reasons. The 28-year-old loose forward played 33 times for the Bok Women and captained the side on three occasions.

Dumke, known for her abrasive style of play, also led the Pretoria side to three consecutive Women’s Premier Division titles, with the last one being this past season. She would’ve played a pivotal role for the Springboks at the upcoming World Cup in England if she were available.

However, she hasn’t been part of the squads of Swys de Bruin, Bok Women performance coach, this season, which indicates that the Border player has been on the sidelines for a while. She last represented her country in 2024 in the WXV 2 tournament when she also captained the side against Australia in Cape Town. 

De Bruin acknowledged Dumke’s importance to the national setup and expressed full support for her decision.

“Lusanda has been pivotal for us, but we now wish her the best as she battles her medical condition,” De Bruin said.

“Her absence will have an impact, but at the same time, the players going to the Rugby World Cup will know that playing for your country while you are fit and strong is indeed a privilege.”

Dumke is a previous winner of the SA Rugby Women’s Player of the Year award, and her leadership and resilience left a lasting mark on both the Bok Women and the Bulls Daisies.

Thando Manana, executive for women’s rugby and strategic projects at the Blue Bulls Company, said Dumke has been more than just a captain.

“She’s been the heartbeat of the Isuzu Bulls Daisies. “Her leadership, humility, and relentless drive have shaped the culture of this team,” according to Manana.

“While we respect her decision to step away for health reasons, her legacy will continue to inspire every player who wears this jersey. We stand firmly behind her and wish her strength and healing in the journey ahead.”